Satellites burning up in Earth’s atmosphere could worsen climate change and ozone depletion

Satellite-Generated Atmospheric Pollution to Skyrocket

The U.S. is unprepared to handle the huge pollution footprint flowing from the imminent launch of tens of thousands of commercial communications satellites into low-Earth orbit, according to Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER). Yet, when needed most, the scientific entities tracking these impacts are on the chopping block.Led by corporations such as Elon Musk’s Starlink, the current 8,100 telecom satellites in orbit are abou…

Satellites burning up in Earth’s atmosphere could worsen climate change and ozone depletion

As thousands of satellites burn up upon re-entry, scientists warn their emissions could disrupt atmospheric temperatures and hinder ozone recovery.Kate Ravilious reports for The Guardian.In short:More than 9,000 satellites currently orbit Earth, with projections estimating over 60,000 by 2040. Most satellites are retired by burning up in the atmosphere, releasing pollutants.Researchers modeled the release of 10,000 tonnes of aluminium oxide annu…

Scientists Chase Falling Satellite to Study Atmospheric Pollution from Spacecraft Reentries

In a rare airborne mission, scientists chased ESA's Cluster Salsa satellite as it reentered Earth's atmosphere. The fiery descent revealed emissions of lithium, potassium, and aluminum—chemicals that could impact the ozone layer and climate. With satellite reentries increasing, researchers aim to improve pollution models and plan further tracking missions through 2026.

Scientists Chase Falling Satellite to Study Atmospheric Pollution from Spacecraft Reentries -DellyRanks - DellyRanks

Scientists take advantage of the spectacular airborne chase of a falling satellite to gather rare data on atmospheric pollution from burnt-up spacecraft. In September 2024, a group of European researchers hopped on an aeroplane outfitted with 26 cameras and flew into the night sky to watch the satellite Cluster Salsa make its flaming return to Earth over the Pacific Ocean. The mission, which was launched from Easter Island, sought chemical bypro…

US cuts space pollution research, Musk could benefitA NOAA study has found a buildup of metals from satellites in the stratosphere that could deplete the ozone layer and destabilize the Earth's climate. However, funding for further research is currently on hold.

The number of satellites near the Earth is increasing and an end is not yet in sight. Researchers have taken on the consequences of falling missiles that could change the climate in the future.